Top 7 Reasons UK Travellers Are Choosing Azores Package Holidays Over Iceland This Year

The allure of Europe’s hidden gems is on the rise, and for UK travellers, a new destination is stealing the spotlight: São Miguel Island in Portugal's magical Azores archipelago. Once dominated by Iceland as a go-to destination for nature lovers, more and more British tourists are now booking Azores package holidays — and for good reason.

With lush green landscapes, dramatic volcanic craters, thermal hot springs, and authentic island culture, the Azores Holidays experience is both breathtaking and budget-friendly. Here are the top 7 reasons why UK travellers are now choosing the Azores over Iceland in 2025 — and why Azores Holidays, based on São Miguel Island, is leading the way in crafting the best travel packages.

Better Value for Money Than Iceland

Let’s face it — Iceland can be expensive. From accommodation and food to excursions and transportation, costs add up quickly. In contrast, Azores package holidays offer stunning natural beauty, exciting tours, and luxury accommodation at a fraction of the cost.

What’s more, flights from the UK to the Azores are often cheaper than those to Iceland. Thanks to providers like Azores Holidays, travellers can book full-package deals that include flights, hotel stays, and island tours — all bundled at unbeatable rates.

Unspoiled Nature Without the Crowds

While Iceland has become a tourist hotspot, the Azores remain blissfully untouched by mass tourism. This means you can enjoy the beauty of volcanic lakes, verdant hillsides, and majestic coastlines without battling tour bus traffic or crowded viewpoints.

From the tranquil shores of Lagoa do Fogo to the famous Sete Cidades crater lakes, São Miguel is a paradise for nature lovers. Booking through Azores Holidays ensures that you experience these iconic spots with professional guides and without the stress of over-tourism.

Year-Round Pleasant Climate

Another reason UK travellers are gravitating toward Azores package holidays is the island's mild, temperate climate. Unlike Iceland’s long, dark winters and unpredictable storms, the Azores enjoy moderate temperatures all year, making it the perfect escape during any season.

Spring and summer offer ideal weather for hiking, swimming, and whale watching, while autumn and winter provide the perfect setting for thermal spa days and cozy coastal walks. It's an all-season paradise, made better with thoughtfully crafted experiences from Azores Holidays.

Incredible Outdoor Adventures for All Types of Travellers

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a relaxation enthusiast, São Miguel delivers. With Azores package holidays, visitors can choose from adrenaline-pumping activities like canyoning, scuba diving, and paragliding to more laid-back adventures like hot spring baths, scenic drives, and coastal strolls.

Unlike Iceland, where activities often require long drives or expensive gear, most adventures in the Azores are easily accessible and wallet-friendly. Azores Holidays specializes in customized packages that cater to couples, families, solo travellers, and seniors alike.

Authentic Portuguese Island Culture

While Iceland offers a more Scandinavian experience, the Azores present a rich blend of Portuguese traditions, music, cuisine, and history. From quaint village festivals to freshly caught seafood served in family-run restaurants, every aspect of the Azorean lifestyle is authentic and inviting.

Travellers consistently remark on the warm hospitality of the locals, the slow-paced way of life, and the feeling of discovering a destination untouched by the hustle and bustle of modern tourism. Azores Holidays incorporates cultural experiences into their packages, so visitors get to truly connect with the spirit of the islands.

Easy Access and Shorter Flight Times from the UK

Travel convenience plays a huge role in destination choices, and the Azores check all the right boxes. With direct flights from major UK airports like London Gatwick and Manchester to Ponta Delgada, your island escape is just a few hours away.

Unlike Iceland, which often requires lengthy layovers or inconvenient travel times, Azores package holidays make it possible to leave in the morning and sip island wine by evening. And with Azores Holidays arranging seamless airport transfers and local transport, the journey is as stress-free as the destination itself.

Sustainable and Eco-Conscious Tourism

UK travellers are becoming more mindful of their travel impact, and the Azores have emerged as a top sustainable destination in Europe. Recognized by UNESCO and various environmental organizations, the Azores focus on protecting natural habitats, preserving biodiversity, and promoting responsible tourism.

By booking with Azores Holidays, you're not only choosing a beautiful and affordable getaway — you're also supporting local communities and sustainable practices. Their packages are designed with eco-conscious travellers in mind, offering carbon-neutral activities and partnerships with green-certified hotels.

Why Book with Azores Holidays?

Unlike generic tour providers, Azores Holidays is based right in the heart of São Miguel Island, giving them unmatched knowledge, local connections, and the ability to curate personalized experiences for every traveller. Their hand-picked itineraries, dedicated customer service, and local guides ensure your holiday is smooth, authentic, and unforgettable.

Here’s what sets Azores Holidays apart:

• Local expertise with insider access to hidden gems
  
  

• Customizable packages tailored to your travel style
  
  

• Affordable, all-inclusive options for every budget
  
  

• Support throughout your journey — before, during, and after your trip

Is It Time to Rethink Your Next Adventure?

The numbers don’t lie — more UK travellers are now swapping Iceland's icy landscapes for the lush, volcanic wonders of the Azores. With unbeatable value, authentic culture, year-round appeal, and curated travel experiences from Azores Holidays, there’s never been a better time to explore this Atlantic paradise.

Whether you're a seasoned traveller or planning your first island escape, the Azores offer something magical, memorable, and manageable — especially when you choose the experts at Azores Holidays.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between Iceland and the Azores used to be a tough decision, but with all the benefits the Azores offer — from affordability and culture to stunning nature and sustainability — it's easy to see why Azores package holidays are becoming the UK's favourite choice.

Take the leap this year. Discover the hidden gem that’s changing the travel game.